Kristine Scott | Harrison Clark Rickerbys

A bit about me

Education is such an important part of everyday life and I use my expertise to focus on issues relating to staff, pupils and parents to allow schools to keep teaching and learning as a priority.

I am trusted to support educational establishments of all types, from independent schools and grammar schools to colleges with sensitive issues such as child protection, pupil exclusions and parental complaints. Working collaboratively with schools, engaging with them beyond pragmatic legal advice, I see myself as an extension to the school team.

Safeguarding and child protection are vital, creating safer systems in schools and pupil and staff wellbeing. I also help schools when allegations of abuse are made against staff, including support on multi-agency working and the duty to report and refer to the appropriate authorities; I’m also a safeguarding link governor at a large senior school.

The quality of my work is recognised in the legal directories – delighted clients have said “the quality of her response is great, as it is always right first time, and she is great to deal with on a personal level.” Sharing my expertise, I regularly speak at national education sector events and provide training to clients on difficult pastoral issues.

Want to know more?

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Communication is key to resolving many issues, so keep talking to each other and to your legal advisers.

Be proactive and keep a paper trail. Thorough preparation at the outset often makes it easier to get your preferred outcome.

Can you help us with a managing an allegation of abuse against a member of staff?
Yes, of course. I frequently support schools on managing allegations of this sort, including liaising with the police and any relevant agencies, support with any reporting requirements to the Charity Commission and reputation management.

How do I keep up to date with all the changes which affect schools?
I would suggest you sign up for our regular schools briefing newsletter together with newsletters from any associations to which the school belongs. We will keep you updated (usually in advance) of any impending changes which may affect you and your pupils, staff and parents.

Kristine Scott talks to BBC Hereford & Worcester about misuse of non-disclosure agreements amongst universities